Tips for Driving at Night

As we talked about in our last blog, night time can be the most dangerous time to be on the road. We’re going to take each of those reasons that make it so dangerous and give tips on how to try and combat those dangers.

Issue: Compromised Night Vision

As we age our ability to see well especially in low-light diminishes.

Our tip:

• Be sure your windshield is clear
• Be sure your lights are on and angled correctly 
• Remember to attend annual vision exams
• Drive at a slower speed
• Minimize all distractions
• If needed and possible, drive only during the daylight

Issue: Fatigue

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Drowsy-driving crashes are most likely to happen between midnight and 6 a.m.” This makes drowsy driving a big night time driving issue.

Our tip:

• Be sure you’re well rested before getting on the road
• Travel at times that you are used to being awake
• Have caffeine if it will help to stay awake
• Find a safe spot to rest if you’re feeling fatigued
• Never try and push through the fatigue

Issue: Rush Hour

Rush hour means crowded roads between the times of 4 and 7 pm added on to the dangers of it being dark.

Our tip: 

• Remember to stay patient
• Don’t react to poorly to other’s on the road
• Stay alert
• Slow down and increase distance between you and other cars

Issue: Impaired Drivers

According to the National Safety Council and the CDC, “Nearly 30 people die every day in crashes that involve a driver impaired by alcohol”. And the NHTSA, “has found that the rate of fatal crashes involving alcohol impairment is almost four times higher at night than during the day”. 

Our tip:

• Never drive under the influence
• Drive defensively 
• Watch for signs of impaired drivers
• Give all your attention to the road

Keep this tips in the back of your mind when having to travel at night and stay safe as always!

Contact: Glisson Law